Akwa Ibom State has emerged as a key target for the opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of the 2027 general elections, with former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi reportedly engaging stakeholders in the state.
Amaechi, who is expected to serve as running mate to ADC presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar, is said to be holding discussions with key stakeholders on plans to drive industrial development in Akwa Ibom if the opposition wins the 2027 presidential election.
A source close to Amaechi told The Southern Examiner that the Atiku-Amaechi team was refining its campaign agenda to address the economic challenges facing the Niger Delta.
In Akwa Ibom, the proposed plans reportedly include expanding gas processing, improving maritime and port logistics, developing agro-allied industries and addressing power supply challenges.
Read Also: dalung-tackles-wike-over-osun-election-claim-says-nigerians-votes-not-in-his-pocket
The source said an ADC-led government would prioritise the operationalisation of the Ibom Deep Seaport and strengthen petrochemical infrastructure in the state.
Although Amaechi could not be reached for comment, his political ally, Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, said Akwa Ibom would experience “a quantum leap” if the ADC defeats the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027.
The development comes amid growing calls for electoral reforms ahead of the 2027 elections, particularly measures to curb vote-buying, voter intimidation and electoral violence.
The Niger Delta remains central to Nigeria’s oil and gas economy, supplying a significant share of the country’s crude oil and gas. However, the region continues to face challenges including environmental degradation, oil spills, gas flaring, poor infrastructure and limited economic opportunities.
The ADC is expected to make these issues a major part of its campaign as it seeks to strengthen its support base across the oil-producing states ahead of the 2027 elections.
